An African safari is a staple on plenty of bucket lists. If you’re still saving up for your own trip, head to Smith Mountain Lake (yes, right in Virginia) to get a little taste of Africa at the new Karoo Resort.
This luxury resort provides African-inspired cabins and lodging to create the ultimate glamping experience right on the lake. Karoo, which opened its property this spring, offers both canvas cabins and lodge suites that can sleep between two and eight guests.
The cabins and rooms are named after iconic landmarks, cities, animals, and plants. Kilimanjaro, Bushwillow, and Cape are just a few examples. In total, the resort has eight different cabins and seven different types of suites.
In the cabins, you’ll find a true outdoor glamping experience. In the Boschendal cabin, the largest on the property, guests will find two master suites that each hold one queen bed and two bunk beds. The cabin’s common areas have a kitchenette with a full-sized refrigerator, two air fryers, and a coffee machine, along with a 55-inch smart TV, a private covered deck, and a private wood-burning hot tub. All tents also have heating, cooling, hot running water.
In comparison to the Caracul, the largest suite at Lodge of Karoo, the amenities are similar. The Caracul sleeps up to four guests, with two king beds. The room also includes a kitchenette – with a mini fridge, coffee maker, air fryer, and other essential cookware – a dining area, private bathroom, 55-inch TV, and access to an outdoor covered porch.
All guests have access to Karoo’s many outdoor activities. The year-round resort offers access to beach volleyball courts, kayaks, fishing, swimming by the community pier, a koi pond, and community hammocks and fire pits.
The price at one of the luxury cabins ranges from $245 to $525 per night. For the lodge suites, it ranges from $100 to $150 per night. All bookings require at least a two-night minimum stay. 399 Royal Estates Blvd., Wirtz
Feature image courtesy Karoo Resort
